This guide explains your rights during airport detention, what to do and avoid, and when a lawyer should step in.
What this means
Refusal of entry is an administrative decision and usually ends with the person being returned. If there is a criminal suspicion or an international wanted notice, the person may be detained and brought before a court. So the first question is always: on what legal basis is the person being held?
Questions to answer first
- Has the reason for holding the person been given in writing?
- Is this a refusal of entry or detention in criminal proceedings?
- Has the person been given a lawyer and a free interpreter?
- Has the consulate been informed?
Documents and evidence to keep
- Passport, ticket and travel itinerary
- A copy of the refusal of entry or detention decision
- Invitation, booking or work documents
- Contact details of family or employer
Applicable law
Refusal of entry and expulsion of foreigners are governed by the Law on the Legal Status of Aliens and Stateless Persons, while detention in criminal proceedings is governed by the Criminal Procedure Code of Georgia. A detained person must be brought before a court within the short time limit set by law.
How the process usually develops
- Check at border control and notice of the reason for holding
- If entry is refused, the return procedure
- If there is a criminal suspicion, a detention report and access to a lawyer
- Court hearing on a preventive measure, or release
How a lawyer helps
A lawyer who is a member of the Georgian Bar Association controls statements, documents and interpretation from the first hours, takes over communication with investigators and brings the criminal, administrative and immigration sides of the case into one strategy. On GeoLawyer you can compare criminal and immigration lawyers and book an online consultation.
Frequently asked questions
Can I make a phone call during airport detention?
As a rule you can ask for your family, a lawyer and your consulate to be informed. State this request clearly.
Do I have to give a statement during airport detention?
You have the right not to give a statement without a lawyer and not to sign documents you do not understand. Ask for a free interpreter.
Can I appeal a refusal of entry?
Yes, a refusal of entry can be appealed in the manner set by law. Make sure you get a copy of the decision.
Sources
Official texts of Georgian legislation: Legislative Herald of Georgia (matsne.gov.ge). matsne.gov.ge
Last reviewed: 2026-10-07. This guide is general information, not legal advice.
